flow·er (flou'ər)
n.
The reproductive structure of some seed-bearing plants, characteristically having either specialized male or female organs or both male and female organs, such as stamens and a pistil, enclosed in an outer envelope of petals and sepals.
Such a structure having showy or colorful parts; a blossom.
A plant that is cultivated or appreciated for its blossoms.
The condition or a time of having developed flowers: The azaleas were in full flower.
Something, such as an ornament or a figure of speech, that resembles a flower in shape, fineness, or attractiveness.
The period of highest development; the peak. See synonyms at bloom1.
The highest example or best representative: the flower of our generation.
A natural development or outgrowth: “His attitude was simply a flower of his general good nature” (Henry James).
flowers Chemistry. A fine powder produced by condensation or sublimation of a compound.
v., -ered, -er·ing, -ers.
v.intr.
To produce a flower or flowers; blossom.
To develop naturally or fully; mature: His artistic talents flowered early.
v.tr.
To decorate with flowers or with a floral pattern.
[Middle English flour, from Old French flor, from Latin flōs, flōr-.]
flowerer flow'er·er n.
flowerless flow'er·less adj.